We want to remind you of a new Food Stamp Program policy coming soon. Effective April 1, 2003, qualified aliens who have been in the U.S. at least five years are entitled to food stamps, if otherwise eligible. ---
Although this new policy doesn't become effective until April 1, there are
actions you can take before then.
In late February, we will send each office a list of active cases containing
aliens coded DI. There appears to be several hundred such cases statewide. In
March, caseworkers will review the eligibility of each alien on this list to
determine if the alien meets the 5-year eligibility requirement. Verification
of qualified alien status and date of entry into the U.S. is required before
adding the alien onto the food stamp case.
As you encounter cases containing ineligible aliens that may be eligible under
this policy, please set an alert on EIS to review this client's eligibility
in March. When you get your alert in March, confirm the person's eligibility,
obtain required verification, and, if eligible, add the person onto the case
effective April 1.
The Food Stamp Policy Manual change containing this new policy will be distributed
at the end of February.
Please contact Joan Chase if you have any questions.
From the Food Stamp Policy Unit